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Transport Canada mandates new safety technologies for trucks

Transport Canada is requiring commercial trucks and buses to adopt two new technologies. The first is electronic stability control technology; a crash avoidance technology that can reduce collisions by helping drivers maintain control, preventing rollovers and improving directional stability. Electronic stability control technology is now required in new truck tractors, and school buses and intercity buses will require electronic stability control by June 2018.

The second is mandatory electronic logging devices for federally regulated motor carriers (trucks and buses) and their commercial drivers. Electronic logging devices help a driver to remain compliant with the federal Commercial Vehicle Drivers Hours of Service Regulations, which reduces the potential for driver fatigue. Electronic logging devices also reduce the administrative burden related to paper log books. They automatically record a driver's driving time, are synced with a vehicle's engine and are designed to be tamper resistant.

“Electronic logs will make compliance easier to verify, ensuring all carriers are following the hours of service rules. This will result in a levelling of the playing field within the industry and improved road safety for all,” said Mike Millian, president of the Private Motor Truck Council of Canada.

Electronic logging devices that meet a new National Safety Code technical standard will become mandatory in 2020. Devices now in use will be permitted until 2022.

Canada's new regulations for both technologies are closely aligned with similar regulations in the United States to improve safety and to support economic growth, trade and shipping, Transport Canada said. By further aligning Canadian and U.S. logging device regulations, Canadian operators could use the same logging device in both countries.